Action 1: Investigate the taxonomic statAction 1: Investigate the taxonomic status of the shrew (Obj. 1; Perf. Crit. 1).

Action 1: Investigate the taxonomic status of the shrew (Obj. 1; Perf. Crit. 1).

Genetic studies, using (dry or ethanol preserved) museum specimens can determine the phylogenetic relationship with closely related shrews in Java and other parts of southeast Asia. This can be achieved by analysing molecular sequence data, such as mitochondrial cytochrome b gene or the control region of D-loop. Taxonomic investigations of Crocidura shrews have been conducted indicating the potential availability of primers of closely related species, for example C. attenuata (Ruedi & Vogel 1995, Motokawa et al. 1997, Motokawa et al. 2000) and C. fuliginosa (Ruedi et al. 1990, Ruedi & Vogel 1995, Ruedi et al. 1998, Querouil et al. 2001). This could be done in various institutions, such as the Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum or the Centre for Environmental Adaptation and Stress Research, University of Melbourne. Although this action will determine the taxonomic status, even if genetic studies show that the Christmas Island Shrew is not a distinct species or subspecies (from those found in Asia), it still represents a unique element of Australian fauna which meets criteria for threatened listing under the EPBC Act, and therefore requires a recovery plan outlining recovery actions.